This season, the English Premier League is witnessing a tactical shift, with the number of passes in matches dropping to the lowest levels in 15 years. Teams are playing more directly, and long throw-ins have gained popularity. Aston Villa's manager, Unai Emery, attributes this to tactical changes in football, noting a trend towards man-to-man marking across the pitch, leading to more duels and less time for passing. This style is spreading to other European leagues, including Italy and Spain. Aston Villa has adapted by using goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to draw opponents' press and create attacking spaces. Emery acknowledges the challenges ahead as Villa aims for a fourth consecutive year in European competitions, emphasizing the need for tactical innovation in the Premier League.